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Kia EV3 vs Vauxhall Frontera comparison

Compare performance (265 HP vs 145 HP), boot space and price (40,200 £ vs 20,700 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – Kia EV3 or Vauxhall Frontera?

Kia EV3 vs Vauxhall Frontera: Key differences

Kia EV3

4.6 (5 Reviews)
rate
  • considerably more power
  • visibly more electric range
  • clearly quicker 0–100 km/h
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Vauxhall Frontera

4.4 (6 Reviews)
rate
  • considerably cheaper
  • substantially lighter
  • moderately more trunk space
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All details on performance, efficiency, range and trunk space can be found in the technical comparison below – including user reviews for both models.

By Achim Sedelmaier

EV3

Kia EV3 vs. Opel Frontera: A Comprehensive Comparison of Innovations and Performance

The automotive industry has seen a surge of electric and hybrid vehicles, pushing traditional boundaries of performance, efficiency, and technology. In this article, we’ll delve into two remarkable representatives of this trend: the Kia EV3 and the Opel Frontera. Both models are set to make waves in 2024, boasting impressive features and specifications that cater to the modern driver.

Frontera

Powertrain and Performance

The Kia EV3 is powered by an electric motor producing up to 204 HP, coupled with an automatic reduction gearbox that allows for smooth acceleration. With a torque of 283 Nm, it accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 7.5 seconds. It features a front-wheel drive system and offers a commendable electric range of up to 605 km, thanks to its battery options of 58.3 kWh and 81.4 kWh. The EV3 promotes efficiency with a consumption rate of 14.9 to 16.2 kWh/100 km, making it a strong contender for eco-conscious buyers.

On the other hand, the Opel Frontera, known for its off-road capabilities, boasts a petrol MHEV (Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle) engine alongside electric options. With a range of power output from 100 to 136 HP, it provides a respectable performance with a torque ranging from 125 to 230 Nm. The Frontera accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in between 9 and 12.1 seconds, depending on the specific variant, and can reach a top speed of up to 190 km/h. Its fuel economy stands at approximately 5.5 L/100 km for the petrol variant, appealing to those who prefer traditional combustion engines while also ensuring reduced emissions.

EV3

Design and Dimensions

Both vehicles embody a distinct design language that sets them apart in their respective categories. The Kia EV3, a stylish SUV, features a sleek exterior with dimensions of 4300 mm in length, 1850 mm in width, and a height ranging from 1560 mm to 1570 mm. This gives it a spacious interior, comfortably seating up to five passengers, with a trunk capacity of 460 liters, perfect for urban commuting or weekend getaways.

The Opel Frontera, designed as a robust off-roader, measures 4385 mm in length and 1795 mm in width, while standing at 1635 mm high. It offers the flexibility of seating for five or even seven passengers, depending on the variant, with an equal trunk capacity of 460 liters. This versatility makes it an excellent choice for adventurous families or those who require extra space.

Frontera

Technological Innovations

Innovation is at the heart of both the Kia EV3 and the Opel Frontera, with each model boasting unique technological features. The Kia EV3 is equipped with cutting-edge infotainment systems, advanced driver-assistance features, and a suite of connectivity options including seamless smartphone integration. Additionally, its electric drivetrain not only enhances driving experience but also reduces the carbon footprint to an impressive 0 g/km CO2 emissions.

Conversely, the Opel Frontera brings to the table a robust hybrid system that optimizes fuel efficiency while maintaining off-road prowess. It incorporates advanced safety features, including adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, ensuring a safer driving experience. Although it has a higher CO2 rating (122 g/km), the hybrid technology significantly reduces overall emissions compared to traditional petrol engines.

EV3

Final Verdict

Choosing between the Kia EV3 and the Opel Frontera comes down to individual preferences and driving requirements. For eco-conscious consumers seeking cutting-edge technology and electric efficiency, the Kia EV3 emerges as a top choice with its excellent electric range and innovative features.

However, for those who prioritize versatility and off-road capabilities while still having hybrid options, the Opel Frontera presents a compelling proposition. Its ability to cater to both family needs and adventurous outings makes it a fierce competitor in the evolving automotive landscape.

Ultimately, whether you lean towards the electrifying Kia EV3 or the rugged Opel Frontera, both vehicles offer remarkable innovations and performance that reflect the future of automotive design.

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Kia EV3
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Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

EV3

Costs and Efficiency:

Price and efficiency are key factors when choosing a car – and this is often where the real differences emerge.

Vauxhall Frontera is considerably cheaper – starting at 20,700 £ , while the Kia EV3 costs 40,200 £ . That’s a price difference of around 19,448 £.

When it comes to electricity consumption, both models perform equally – each averaging 15.8 kWh/100km.

As for electric range, the Kia EV3 offers visibly more range – reaching up to 572 km, about 164 km more than the Vauxhall Frontera.

Frontera

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration say a lot about how a car feels on the road. This is where you see which model delivers more driving dynamics.

When it comes to engine power, the Kia EV3 offers considerably more power – delivering 265 HP compared to 145 HP. That’s roughly 120 HP more horsepower.

When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the Kia EV3 is clearly quicker – completing the sprint in 6.6 s, while the Vauxhall Frontera takes 9.1 s. That’s about 2.5 s quicker.

There’s also a difference in torque: the Kia EV3 delivers clearly more torque with 385 Nm compared to 230 Nm. That’s about 155 Nm more.

EV3

Space and Everyday Use:

Cabin size, boot volume and payload all play a role in everyday practicality. Here, comfort and flexibility make the difference.

Seats: Vauxhall Frontera offers more seats – 7 vs 5.

In terms of curb weight, Vauxhall Frontera is substantially lighter – 1,394 kg compared to 1,995 kg. The difference is around 601 kg.

Looking at boot space, the Vauxhall Frontera offers moderately more boot space – 460 L compared to 413 L. That’s a difference of about 47 L.

When it comes to payload, the Vauxhall Frontera carries somewhat more – 570 kg compared to 485 kg. That’s a difference of about 85 kg.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The Kia EV3 is narrowly ahead in the objective data comparison.
This result only shows which model scores more points on paper – not which of the two cars feels right for you.

from £40,200
EV3

Kia EV3

  • Engine Type : Electric
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 265 HP
  • Consumption kWh/100km : 15.8 kWh/100km
  • Electric Range : 572 km
details
Kia EV3
Vauxhall Frontera

Costs and Consumption
View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance
View detailed analysis

Dimensions and Body
View detailed analysis

Kia EV3

The Kia EV3 is a stylish, user-friendly electric crossover that focuses on practicality and a roomy, well-equipped cabin. It delivers a comfortable ride with intuitive technology and efficient everyday performance, making it a sensible choice for city and family use.

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Reviews Kia EV3

4.6 (5 Reviews)
rate
pedro
8 May 2026, 11:01:53

Aesthetically it seems nicer to me, and I think it's better soundproofed.

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): Commuter (short/medium distance)
Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Driving Fun / Performance
Technology & Infotainment
Safety
Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
Value for Money
José
24 Dec 2025, 17:42:54

A good car for a small family. Easy and practical.

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): Family car
Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Driving Fun / Performance
Technology & Infotainment
Safety
Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
Value for Money

Vauxhall Frontera

The Opel Frontera is a rugged, no-nonsense SUV that balances off-road capability with comfortable everyday driving. It offers straightforward mechanics and a practical cabin, making it a sensible choice for buyers who value durability over flash.

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NewOpelFronteraElectric (1)
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NewOpelFronteraElectric (7)

Reviews Vauxhall Frontera

4.4 (6 Reviews)
rate
Roch
18 May 2026, 10:12:50

Automatic gearbox and certain features, like the windshield wipers that aren’t optional; the trunk capacity is larger on the 5-seat Frontera.

Wolfgang
6 May 2026, 04:24:52

I just like the Opel better (maybe only because I'm very disappointed in VW and therefore also in its subsidiaries).

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): Commuter (short/medium distance)
Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Driving Fun / Performance
Technology & Infotainment
Safety
Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
Value for Money
Gilbert
14 Apr 2026, 08:19:17

I bought the Opel Frontera GS 145PS after also testing the VW T‑Roc; so far I've driven about 5,800 km in it.

My purchase decision was based on the following criteria:
- modern design that stands out from the crowd
- low fuel consumption
- very good seats and plenty of space front and rear
- large, practical boot
- good performance characteristics
- very easy to get into
- simple controls, partly with physical buttons
- clear, well‑laid‑out cockpit

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): Family car
Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Driving Fun / Performance
Technology & Infotainment
Safety
Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
Value for Money
H. P.
19 Dec 2025, 13:27:19

Opel has clearly skimped here. Misaligned panel gaps, no position/parking light, patchy workmanship and ill‑fitting parts — for example the partition between the passenger footwell and the engine bay — the owner's manual is inadequate and at times reads like a fairy tale; many of the functions it describes are nowhere to be found. They simply don't exist. And the claimed fuel consumption? Even with normal driving — that is, without acceleration orgies — it's unattainable.

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): Leisure / Weekend driver
Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Driving Fun / Performance
Technology & Infotainment
Safety
Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
Value for Money

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Kia EV5
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This comparison looks at the Kia EV3 vs the Kia EV5 to help you decide which electric crossover better fits your daily needs and budget. The EV3 leans toward compact, city-friendly efficiency and value, while the EV5 offers more interior space, stronger performance and extra tech for buyers who …
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Kia EV3
Vauxhall Frontera

Costs and Consumption
Price
40,200 - 43,900 £
Price
20,700 - 30,000 £
Consumption L/100km
-
Consumption L/100km
5.2 - 5.3 L/100km
Consumption kWh/100km
15.8 kWh/100km
Consumption kWh/100km
15.8 - 18.3 kWh/100km
Electric Range
572 km
Electric Range
308 - 408 km
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
co2
0 g/km
co2
0 - 119 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
-

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
SUV
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5
Seats
5 - 7
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
1,995 kg
Curb weight
1,394 - 1,610 kg
Trunk capacity
413 L
Trunk capacity
460 L
Length
-
Length
-
Width
1,850 mm
Width
1,795 mm
Height
-
Height
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Payload
485 kg
Payload
436 - 570 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Electric
Engine Type
Electric, Petrol MHEV
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
Reduction Gearbox
Transmission Detail
Reduction Gearbox, Dual-Clutch Automatic
Drive Type
All-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Power HP
265 HP
Power HP
110 - 145 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
6.6 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
9.1 - 14.2 s
Max Speed
-
Max Speed
-
Torque
385 Nm
Torque
125 - 230 Nm
Number of Cylinders
-
Number of Cylinders
3
Power kW
195 kW
Power kW
81 - 107 kW
Engine capacity
-
Engine capacity
1,199 cm3

General
Model Year
2026
Model Year
2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
A
CO2 Efficiency Class
A, D
Brand
Kia
Brand
Vauxhall
What drivetrain options does the Kia EV3 have?

The Kia EV3 is available as All-Wheel Drive.

DriveDuel uses data analysis and artificial intelligence to evaluate vehicle data and create content. Content is regularly reviewed and improved. The displayed prices are estimates based on German list prices, adjusted to the respective country’s VAT. Country-specific registration taxes are not included. This information is not legally binding.